Can be read as a standalone novel **Contains sensitive subject matters**
Dying . . . Dead . . . Deceased . . .
It doesn’t matter how many times I say it or how many different names I give it, it still means the same thing. One of these days I’ll be nothing but a passing memory, a familiar face in a forgotten photo. But there are three things I need before this life of mine ends . . .
I need to tell him I love him more than life itself. I need to feel the strength of his arms wrapped around me just one more night. Most of all, I need him to forgive me.
Eight years ago I broke the heart of the only man I’ve ever loved and today I’m moving home in hopes that he’ll let me put it back together. I’m not sure how many breaths I have left, but I’ll use each and every last one fighting for what I destroyed.
I like Pretty Pink Ribbons less. I am disappointed actually. Pretty Pink Ribbons is more dramatic and OTT cheesy. I think Miss Grayson tried to bring the survivor aspect to Laney character and failed.
The theme of the book about cancer is good. Promising. I am expecting more about the journey of being cancer patient and the treatment. Add romance is good. Especially second chance romance.
Laney is the heroine I can not connect with. She is needy, selfish and drama queen. She drools on every page on how sexy Levy is. Yes I got it! Levy is sexy and good looking. But it is not neccessary to mention it on every page. And not telling Levy about her condition, is just plain selfish. No excuse.
I really want to like this book more than 3 stars. At the end... I only can give 3 stars.
This is second in a series, and you get to know Levi at least a little there. So I recommend reading these in order for the full impact.
I really liked Levi in the first book, though I was wary of how stupid it'd end up being that his heart is so closed off. Romance authors do this a lot because it's supposed to be romantic that they haven't been able to love anyone else. I find it ridiculous and a bit self-indulgent that someone would be that closed off to life for however many years. And that applies to both protagonists in this story as neither has moved on from their breakup eight years ago.
Anyway, if I just get past the background, Levi worked out pretty well, I think. He's protective and capable and loves his friends deeply. And I was glad that he wasn't too harsh with Laney when she drops back into his life.
Grayson withholds some of the details of their breakup but not for too long. I'll admit I was looking forward to the whole reveal because it looked to me like a simple mistake made by young people choosing poorly. Which happens. Only then we learn the details and I lost all respect or engagement with Laney. Yeah, she has cancer and that drew my sympathy. But it turns out that she's one of those people who manipulates others for their own good. And I hate that more than a little. I mean, love is supposed to mean getting over your own ego and becoming a team. I know it doesn't always work that way, but that's what I consider romantic. And let me tell you, Laney .
And as the end approached, I feared there'd be one of those manufactured dark moments because we still had lots of book left and everyone was already into the "I love yous" and that meant something had to happen. And it did, but it wasn't a dark moment. It was way worse. Indeed, I may never forgive Grayson for . I do not like being manipulated and this was pretty bad.
Also, I completely rewrote a huge piece at the end in my head where Levi is . I suspect that Grayson meant it to be sympathetic and an indicator for his great heart. I found it stupid and an indicator of his weak brain and selfish heart.
I thought I'd end this at a simple three stars because Levi was pretty cool even if Laney was a dead loss and I really liked all their friends. But that bit at the end dropped it down to two. I might come back to the series later. Maybe. I liked Mia and Benny and wouldn't mind picking up their story. Not sure I like the idea of Brit and Connor between here and there, though...
A note about Steamy: There were a handful of explicit sex scenes that I mostly skimmed. It's the middle of my steam tolerance but might have been higher had I been paying attention. Maybe. I dunno. It moved way too fast past the intricacies of her breast cancer fallout and I found I didn't much care after that.
"His eyes are two pools of swirling water, and I want nothing more than to dive inside and drown in his soul. Resurfacing is not an option because I need him more than I need my next breath."
Sentimental, heart-wrenching, dramatic, full of love, and forever-you-hold-my-heart-devotion, this it just some of the thoughts that I would use to sum up my tumultuous thoughts of my reading experience of Pretty Pink Ribbons.
This book is about how to fight your fear, appreciate what you have in life and how to survive and be the winner, no matter what obstacle that lie ahead! This book is about Laney’s journey to “win her battle” with breast cancer, and earn Levi’s love and forgiveness. It’s all about second chances, unconditional love, forgiveness, selflessness, courage, strong friendship and family bonds and inner strength. But most of all, we learn that life is about living as well as possible, coping, acceptance, gentle positivity, setting short-term, achievable goals, and drawing on support from those closest to us.
I don’t want to give anything away. It's one of those books that you should just read without finding out too much about it. It might ruin the whole story for you and that would be a shame, because it's a beautiful one. First off I want to say...Damn.That.Prologue! It ripped my heart out. I fell apart. Then there are the secondary characters, all of which were awesome. If you’re looking for a heartbreaking and heartwarming read, this is definitely worth a read!
This book crushed me! And it gave me hope. It is the most amazing story. I literally had goosebumps. It was that good!!
Favorite quotes: “You’re my salvation Laney, my miracle. I told you I was doing this with you and I meant it. If you cry, I cry. If you break, I break.” “If I die?” I ask breathlessly. “Then you’ll take me with you.”
“What are you wishing for, Laney?” “The same thing I always wish for. You.”
K.L. Grayson did a phenomenal job with her debut novel, Where I Belong, but with this one, she managed to tug at my heart strings, drag me through the mud, and stomp on my feels. I've read plenty of books that have made me cry but this one, oh man, this one definitely takes the cake. It was emotionally beautiful… it was breathtakingly beautiful and it left me an utter mess.
This book was personal for me, for I too had a loved one that battled this disease. It’s cruel and unfair what a woman must endure but at the end, we’re stronger for it! These ladies are survivors and true heroes in my book. In other cases, some lose the battle, but it doesn't take away how courageous they were because they fought unit their dying breath *sniff*.
Laney. I love this woman. She’s fierce, she’s brave, and she’s amazing! She’s a fighter! Even when she walked away from her true love all those years ago, she never gave up. She returned back home to fight for her love. To fight for her life! Her journey was amazing to witness. There wasn't a moment I wasn't crying with her.
Levi. I loved him from book 1 and now being inside his mind has made me love him even more. He was sweet, kind, caring, a true gentleman, and he loves so fiercely that it leaves you swooning and weak in the knees *sigh*. Even in his moments of hardheadedness and stubbornness, his actions didn't deter my love for him. I loved him through his issues.
Not only has K.L. Grayson captivated me with the two main characters but she’s managed to make me fall madly in love with her secondary characters. I seriously want and need Benny’s, Luke’s, and Mason’s books STAT!
This book was one of this stories that marked me. It was powerful, heartfelt and the writing blew me away. I wouldn't change one thing about it. It was a story of love, courage, family, friendship, forgiveness, strength, survival, and above all, living life to the fullest. Never taking anything for granted, for life is short and one never knows when it’s their time to leave this Earth.
So, I thank you K.L. Grayson, for moving me and showing me how precious life can be.
* ARC was kindly provided in exchange for an honest review. *
K.L. Grayson starts us off with a griping prologue that simply guts you. It starts you with a high, while we as readers know, this is a prelude to utter devastation. K.L. did not disappoint in her story telling. Her writing style flowed and portrayed well depicted images within the readers mind (basically me).
This book is about Laney Jacobs journey, a second chance novel. In as much as it's her journey as the synopsis states, this is also an eye opener to many major themes- strength, loyalty, family, forgiveness and ultimately, love. The perseverance that one resilient woman endeavors upon, while on the path toward forgiveness.
Levi and Laney are young lovers in the town of St.Louis. Laney's dream is to attend the Culinary Institute. However, in order to do so, she must move to California. Away from Levi and away from the love they have. One romantically planned night, Levi surprises her, and instead of the romantic ending, they both leave in heartbreak and despair. While Levi is confessing his love to Laney for the first time in their relationship, Laney has slowly and painfully ripped his heart out by going after her dreams and moving to California. Choosing a life she always wanted over the love that they have. With a single decision, both Laney and Levi's paths are changed. Eight years later, riddled with guilt and regret, Laney Jacobs returns. Searching for forgiveness, searching for the only person she has ever loved, she seeks out Levi.
Returning home is bittersweet. All the memories- the love and heartache come bearing down upon Laney, yet she remains resilient in her search for forgiveness. Running into Levi while his head chef quits. Laney offers to fill the spot until he can find a new head chef. Amazed that Levi is running his own business, and has surpassed the young boy she once knew, she is now looking into the eyes of a gorgeous, sexy, man. Albeit, an extremely angry, sexy man.
Levi has had his heart ripped out by one woman when he was young. His mother left his younger brother, him and his father when they were small. Leaving them, Levi didn't know how not to love. When he found his one true love, Laney, and she cheated him out of being loved, he toughened his heart and stilled his emotions into meaningless encounters that never quenched his thirst. Over the years he has followed Laney's career on-line and as proud of her accomplishments as he is, he will never forget the pain she inflicted upon his fragile heart.
Agreeing to Laney's help, he isn't sure if this is a good idea. Levi is flustered. Laney! His Laney is back, but she hasn't been his in eight years. Yet, the feeling of comfort and love come crashing to the surface as he tries to remain as impassive as possible. I loved the way Levi got angry when he first encountered Laney. It was extremely well put together and I felt Levi's anger and pain.
As much as Laney's goal is forgiveness, she is also hiding a crushing secret, one that she refuses to expose until she can make Levi fall in love with her again. She doesn't want to reveal her secret to him out of fear he will pity her.
Levi soon starts to carefully open himself up to Laney, yet still trying to keep a small part hidden away. His fear of betrayal is alive and fearful within him. He can not handle another heartbreak by Laney. This time, he will be destroyed.
They both fall into an easy going friendship and start going out together. Little things that means the entire world to Laney - a small smile, a silly comment, making her favourite dish- it all brings them closer to each other. While fighting for Levi, Laney's other battle is internally tearing her apart. Her body is shutting down and her physical strength is slowly being drained. Laney is putting on a brave face for Levi, because she still hasn't revealed her devastating secret.
Falling in love with Levi all over again is crushing Laney. Knowing that she will have to hurt him, she focuses on all the good things they both have going for them. Spending time together and simply building their relationship while waiting for the unknown to occur.
"Levi, I love you. I loved you then, I've loved you every single second of every single day for the past eight years and I'm going to love you until the day I die."
I wished the ending turned out differently. This could have been such a good basis for other books to follow.
*ARC provided by on behalf of the author for an honest review* Thanks!
Heartbreaking. Beautiful. Well Written. Captivating. Those are just a few words to describe this amazing book. Finding the words to give this book the justice that it deserves was a difficult task for me, but I’m going to give it my best shot…..
Pretty Pink Ribbons follows the story of Laney and Levi. Eight years ago, Laney made the biggest mistake of her life. Forced with an ultimatum, she choose following her dreams over love. A decision that she has regretted since the moment she made it. Now, eight years later, Laney is moving back home. She wants to try to make up for her mistakes and hopes that Levi will give her a second chance before it’s too late. When Laney left Levi, he was devastated. He promised himself that he would never fall in love again. For eight years, he’s tried desperately to erase her memory. Just when he thinks that he’s finally moved on, Laney comes back into his life. Levi finds himself confused. He wants to be mad at her, but is finding that to be nearly impossible, especially once they hash things out. When the truth comes out, will Levi and Laney be able to get past the hurt and have a second chance?
It is so hard to believe that this only K.L. Grayson’s second book! It is so well written, it feels as though she has been writing for ages. From the moment I read this synopsis, I knew I had to get my hands on this book. I knew it was going to be life changing. I was not prepared for how deeply this book would effect me. Pretty Pink Ribbons is beautifully written and you can tell that this book was written from the author’s heart. I could not put this book down. I devoured every word, every moment of this book. There were so many times where I was brought to tears. This book wrecked me and broke me in the best possible way.
The characters are absolutely amazing. I was hooked on Laney and Levi from the very first page and just had to know more about their story. Their connection and chemistry was so beautiful. I was crossing my fingers and rooting for them to be able to find their way back to each other. The secondary characters were just as amazing. I adored Mia and Benny. They were the absolute best friends Laney could even ask for. Their strength and love was so inspiring. Everyone needs friends like those in their life. And I really hope that we get to see more of them in the future.
Pretty Pink Ribbons is not an easy read. The subject matter is tough and real. Your heart will break and it will feel as though you going through all of this with Laney. That being said, this is a book about strength, determination, fight and the power of love. This is one of those reads that will stay with you for a long time. I loved everything about Laney and Levi’s story. I highly recommend checking this one out!
*I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Blurb: Can be read as a standalone novel **Contains sensitive subject matters**
Dying . . . Dead . . . Deceased . . .
It doesn’t matter how many times I say it or how many different names I give it, it still means the same thing. One of these days I’ll be nothing but a passing memory, a familiar face in a forgotten photo. But there are three things I need before this life of mine ends . . .
I need to tell him I love him more than life itself. I need to feel the strength of his arms wrapped around me just one more night. Most of all, I need him to forgive me.
Eight years ago I broke the heart of the only man I’ve ever loved and today I’m moving home in hopes that he’ll let me put it back together. I’m not sure how many breaths I have left, but I’ll use each and every last one fighting for what I destroyed.
Wow first let me start by saying that I think KL is a very talented writer. I fell in love with her writing and the hero Levi when I read her debut book, Where We Belong, a couple of months back. She is a truly gifted writer.
Her character development is amazing. Not only do you fall in love with her main characters but you can't help but love her secondary ones as well. So when I found out she was writing Levi's story I was ecstatic. I couldn't wait to get my hands on it and I was even bold enough to let her know because I KNEW I would love his story. You know what? I was right. I freaking loved it.
Pretty Pink Ribbons not only follows Laneys journey to reconnect with Levy but follows her battle to live. Laney is a strong, kind and giving heroine who is facing a tough battle. Her will to live and strength is amazing. After leaving 8 years ago and breaking Levi's heart, she is back to tell him she loves him while hoping to earn his forgiveness and love in return. Levi is a caring, sexy, strong man who is reluctant to give Laney a second chance even though he still loves her.
"All it takes is this one look—this one kiss—and I’m owned. Every piece of my broken soul belongs to this angel . . . I just pray to God that she can find a way to put it back together. And more than that, I pray to God she doesn’t break it again.”
Their journey back to each other was breathtakingly beautiful. They spend a lot of time to get to know each other and experience new things. I was in awe of their love and selflessness for one another.
KL stirred up so many emotions in me, there were times I didn't know how to feel. I went from being sad to being happy in the blink of an eye. there were many times I had to grab a tissue. This book had me in an emotional roller-coaster that I would surely ride again.
Even though KL has only written 2 books, she is moving up in ranks to being one of my favorite authors. I can't wait to read what she comes out with next and will likely harass her about reading that one also. I strongly recommend that you pick up a copy of both her books.
Laney Jacobs broke the heart of the only boy she has ever loved. Levi Beckford. in love as teens, the break apart when Laney has a chance to escape the hell of her home life, for the dream of a culinary school, but in Cali. Levi hurt, gives her an ultimatum and loses her. Now 8 yrs later she is back with two things in mind. One, get him to forgive her and give her another chance and two, to live.
See one of the reasons Laney is back home is...she has breast cancer. She is ready to fight. To live. But she also needs to find peace and for Levi.
Levi isnt receptive to her at first but he still loves her, even if he doesn't want too, in his mind. His heart still wants too. Slow she is winning him back and hiding her condition. As the two cross over the line back into friends than more, he secret will be revealed. Hurt, he walks away....but decides he will fight with her....but with it be enough?
This was so F***ing good! I loved it. I have a few friends who have battled this disease. Some have one, sadly, some have lost. The depths of emotion, pain, fear all are beautifully touched on in this book. A real life glimpse on the horrors of cancer.
Pretty Pink Ribbons is a touching, and at times a heartbreaking story about having a second chance at your first and only love. Eight years ago Laney broke Levi’s heart when he gave her an ultimatum, her dream of culinary school in California or him. Now she is back home, with her friends and family and willing to fight for the man she never stopped loving. But that’s not the only fight she must battle.
I am a sucker for second chance love stories so when I saw this one I couldn’t wait to check it out. Laney and Levi’s story was one of true young love that ended too soon. But it never really ended even with years and thousands of miles separating them. I will say that I did enjoy the story and liked the characters but in saying that I will add that I found I struggled to connect with both. I found the story falling flat, it was good but I was left wanting more from it; more emotion and more connection between them cause I just wasn’t feeling it.
Laney was such a great strong character and I truly admired all that she had to go through and how for the most part she fought it, keeping very outgoing and optimistic on her situation. She had her moments of breakdown, but anyone in that situation would. I liked Levi’s character and really loved how he was with Laney and how he reacted to her telling her truth, how he stood beside her and gave her the support she needed, but I wanted to love him and there was just something about him that held me back from loving him.
It is a great story of these two characters finding their way back to each other as she had her own battle but I had issues with the writing of the story. At times throughout the book, it would flash back to the past, sometimes 8 years ago and sometimes a few days ago. I found the transition from the present to past and then back to be rough, it didn’t flow well for me and found myself being pulled me out of the story when it transitioned. Although the font style changed, to show the change in time but still found the change to be choppy. Also for the flash back to the past that was current time, I would have rather seen those parts as they happen, rather than have the story jump past them and then have the character daydream back to them.
Overall it was a good read, I enjoyed their story and seeing them come back together, I just think I would have enjoyed it much more if I could have built a connection with the characters.
This was a tough read for me because the day after I started reading it, I found out someone I loved had stage 4 cancer. I thought I would be able to read it but unfortunately I had to put it down because at times it was just too much, for this reason I apologize to KL for not getting my ARC review up the minute the book went live. I feel the need to explain that I read to escape reality and Pretty Pink Ribbons (although it is amazingly written) just hit too close to home. It is now months later that I was able to finish it and wow, KL you did an amazing job. I will admit that first I was disappointed (and upset) because I was expecting Levi's story (I fell in love with Levi while reading the first book in this series and I really wanted his story). This fact is the only reason I'm not rating this amazing book 5 stars. As someone who loved Levi (and waited months for his book) I was kind of bummed I got mostly Laney. It took me a long time to realize that this book was NOT about Levi (even if I loved him and even though I wanted it to be that way). I now understand that this book was Laney's story and I should've been reading it from that perspective from the beginning. Even though I finally came to terms with this, I still can't give it 5 stars because of that. Moving on, After I realized that this was about Laney not Levi; I was able to enjoy the book and I finished it pretty quickly. I was able to get some Levi along the way as some chapters were told in his point of view but I still want more, a Levi novella told only from his POV? Yes please! In the end, I absolutely recommend this to everyone as this was a great emotional read!
What a heart wrenching beautiful story. I can't tell you the number of times I wanted to put down this book. Not because it was bad, but because it made me feel way too much. Yes. Made me feel too much. At several points in this story I wanted to cry and I definitely teared up throughout this story. I didn't realize what the story was about until I was already invested in the characters. But I guess if should I known by the title of the book. Silly me. Honestly if I had known about the subject matter, I probably wouldn't have read this book. I really hate books that make me super sad and make me cry. With that being said, what an awesome second chance romance. The MCs were great and so were the secondary characters. I'm not sure what else to say but give this story a chance if you don't mind being an emotional wreck once it done. I'm still thinking about this story as I type this last sentence.
I received an arc in exchange for a honest review.
Amazingly Beautiful Story! Laney Jacobs grabbed my heart and touched my soul. Her strength was inspiring. The strength to let Levi go so they could both finish school and make something of themselves. The strength to come back home to fix the biggest mistake of her life. The strength to deal with her illness and hide it from others... Just amazing. This book tore my heart out many times. But it also made me smile and even laugh out loud. The writing was beautifully done and I loved the characters. They came to life on the page. It is truly beautiful. This Is Definitely A Must Read For Everyone!!
Honestly I dont even know where to begin with this review. Pretty Pink Ribbons blew me away! This story had me swirling in a sea of every kind of emotion imaginable! One minute I was laughing and the next I was a sobbing mess!! K.L. Grayson has a way to bring you into her stories and make you feel everything the characters are feeling!!
I dont want to give anything away because everyone should experience this beautiful story for themselves! The characters are amazing! Lani and Levi, wow, the chemistry and love between them is epic, but a tough road for them. The secondary characters in this story brough out so much love and amamzing friendships that they share just added to the story. The one thing that stood out the most to me is Lani, not very often does the female character suck me in and feel everything she is feeling, she was an awesome character!
This was a beautifully written story about love, hope, and second chances! I would definitely recommend this to everyone. It was a whirlwind experience the whole time and I was on pins and needles devouring this book!! Pink Ribbon will suck you in and pull on your heartstrings in the best possible way!! I can not wait for what K.L. Grayson comes out with next.
This was a GREAT follow up to Where We Belong! I loved Levi in that and this one just made me fall so much harder. The writing flows so smoothly, and before you know it you're halfway done with the book. I can't come up with much to say because I just enjoyed ALL of it. It was very realistic and not at all angsty while still keeping you enthralled, which isn't always easy to do. It dealt with a serious topic but it never felt weighed down by it, it wasn't depressing but really rather uplifting. Laney and Mia were also a lot of fun together, and their relationship was a close second to Laney and Levi's.
The only thing I didn't love was near the ending. I knew That being said the last scene was still really cute, I just wish the gap was bridged differently.
I NEED...not want, but NEED Benny and Mia's book. I'd also be really interested in Luke's ;)
So the hint is in the title "Pretty Pink Ribbons"and I should have paid attention to it.
Another book where the synopsis doesn't warn you that there is a Cancer story running through the book. I was going to call it quits early on but have to admit K L Grayson's writing voice tempted me to continue and I did.
Steer clear if you don't want to read about Cancer. Its emotional at times BUT this one has a HEA.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I have been a big fan of K.L. Grayson's work since I got read her stellar debut novel a few months ago. When I heard she was working on her next endeavor I knew I had to get my hands on it. Lucky for me, I was given an ARC. I was hooked from the very start. The prologue pulled me right in and I read furiously until there was no story left.
Pretty Pink Ribbons follows the story of Laney and Levi. If you read Where We Belong, then you've briefly met Levi. You do not have to have read that book for this one to make any kind of sense at all. It is told in a dual POV which works well here. It was more of an action-reaction style, so the same details weren't written over. After a long time away from home Laney had returned to make up for her biggest mistake and regret. But she is also in for the battle of her life. I absolutely loved Laney. Her grace in the face of all she was going through and her ability to put everyone before herself endeared her to me. She was selfless and giving even when she needed so much. Then there was Levi, determined not to let Laney back into his life or his heart. Too bad for him that it was inevitable. The way she broke him down, little by little was fun to witness. Their bucket list dates warmed my heart. I enjoyed seeing them being light and carefree especially in the face of the unknown. Levi is a truly good guy and would do anything for those he considers a friend. My heart broke for him as he had to watch Laney fight and not be able to do anything about it. He is a fixer and not being able to fix this for her just about did him in.
The cast of secondary characters in this book was great. I enjoyed being able to briefly catch up with Tyson, Harley and Max (from Where We Belong). The introduction of Mia, Luke, Mason and Benny was great. They were all wonderfully giving and loving people. The way they rallied around Laney showed that your family isn't just blood. The scene with Benny, Luke and Levi in the bathroom gutted me as much as it lifted my spirits. I really enjoyed seeing the other side, the side of the loved ones who fight along side the person diagnosed with cancer. It isn't easy on anyone and often times they feel the need to be the strong ones.
There isn't a person in this world whose life hasn't been touched by cancer is some way, shape or form. It is never an easy topic to read or discuss. That being said, K.L. Grayson handled it with the grace and care that it deserved. She gave me the ugly, scary and painful while allowing Laney to stay true to herself. This book was masterfully written. The depth of emotion that I felt while reading isn't something that happens often. I laughed, I cried, I held my breath and cried some more. Have your tissues ready. Pretty Pink Ribbons struck a cord deep within me and is a book that will stay with me for quite some time. Oh, and that epilogue, a perfect conclusion to the story, full circle.
*Review copy received from the author for an honest review*
4 “I love you” stars!
I agreed to review Pretty Pink Ribbons because of its title, and didn’t put together that I had actually read the first book in this series, a few weeks ago. Pretty Pink Ribbons can be read as a stand-alone, but it was a nice surprise to me, at about 15 or 20%, when I figured out I knew all these characters from a previous read….silly me!!! LOL
“There’s that word again. Time. If only I knew how much time I have left.”
Pretty Pink Ribbons is Laney and Levi’s emotional story. This one touched me because this story discusses something that a lot of people are familiar with or touched by. The prologue will make your heart ache, and there are so many more emotional scenes to it. In the beginning Laney is forced to make one of the hardest decisions of her life. And it would be so easy to judge her for the choice she made, but I personally was happy with her decision. My opinion is what’s meant to be will be, and in this case it’s true.
“You’ve got his undies so twisted up he can’t fucking see straight.”
Levi, on the other hand, was not a new character to me, as I was introduced to him in Where We Belong. I really enjoyed and respected him in Where We Belong, so I was happy to see where this story took him. And it was great to find out what happened to him to cause his no-relationship rule. But, 8 years!!! That sure is a long time to deny yourself love. And then when that cause literally falls at his feet, after 8 years, she is coming back for more reasons than just him.
“You should hate me, because I hate myself. So until we work through those feelings, you’re not ready to know why I’m home.”
All the characters in this story are enjoyable. I would love to know more about so many more of them. So far, I have loved how both stories have given just enough about the secondary characters to make you wonder about their stories and hope for more about them. Plus, they were a great support system for Levi and Laney. I enjoyed how there was not a lot of tension…only a few funny moments with Luke (Laney’s brother), Levi, and Laney. Yes, in between the sadness, there are many romantic, funny, and smile worthy moments to get you through the tough stuff.
“You know your alpha tendencies aren’t nearly as cute as they used to be.”
Hopefully I have given you all enough info to prove that I truly enjoyed this story and recommend it to others. And don’t forget that it is a stand-alone, but I think it is more enjoyable if you have read Where We Belong first :) Happy Reading!!!
Where to even begin……. Sometimes you come across a book that makes you take a step back and re-evaluate your priorities in life. It’s not often but boy oh boy it can surely be a wake-up call.
Not only reading but writing ones emotions as they face the shadow of death is no easy feat. KL Grayson captured beautifully the strength, courage and heartache not only one going through such faces but, the families hurt, worries and feelings of helplessness as well. I am not sure why but the one thing that stuck out the most to me in this book was the power of a girlfriend, and the need and support that is priceless. As woman we tend to be so judgmental of ourselves and one another but there is the power of that “sister” in your life that is unprecedented. KL captured such soul deep feelings in the bond between Laney and her best friend Mia- it was unlike any I have ever read.
“Peace, she whispers, seemingly trying the word on for size.” “I want you to have peace.”
Levi, Levi, Levi………sighhhhh. Our hearts were captured by Levi in Grayson’s first book Where We Belong when he portrayed the best friend of Harley. Such a warm, loving and SEXY soul.
Pretty Pink Ribbons starts with the young love of Levi and Laney, fresh out of high school and looking for the direction their lives will take. When Laney is given an ultimatum she decides on a different path than what either of them were hoping for. After being away for 8 years and facing a life threatening disease, Laney returns home.
8 years Levi has tried to forget Laney, to no avail. Wanting to allow the anger to resurface is his initial reaction but his deep, long, and never forgotten feelings cannot be ignored. The emotions I felt as I read these two fight with such passion for what they wanted out of life are indescribable.
"Levi, I love you. I loved you then, I've loved you every single second of every single day for the past eight years and I'm going to love you until the day I die."
K.L Grayson is just a wonderful writer who fills her pages with hope, courage, love, and the strength needed to overcome and live the most out of life. Pretty Pink Ribbons will leave its mark and will in no way be forgotten.
I completely loved Levi's character in the first book in this series but he seemed to be almost forgotten halfway through the book so I was always really hoping he would have his own story told at some stage and I am SO happy with the way it went!
I thought this book was wonderful. It's really about second chances, overcoming mistakes and not taking life for granted, to really just live it to the fullest.
K.L Grayson has yet again proven herself to be great author. I know I loved Harley and Tyson's story but I just ADORED Levi and Laney's story.
Levi was strong, sweet and had a heart of gold. He was sexy and dominant in all the good ways and also incredibly supportive. Laney was a woman full of strength and courage, she was determined to go for what she wanted and I had a lot of respect for her as a character because of that. Laney is facing one of the most terrifying experiences anyone can go through, Cancer. She was a great heroine, she knew she made mistakes but she owned them and pushed ahead and got her shit done, you can never fault a strong woman who goes for what she wants. Laney and Levi were perfection, great chemistry and a very believable couple.
This author writes with such emotion. I find her books always come across very poignant and real. This love story will make you believe in real love and maybe even that everything happens for a reason. It's full of family and friendship, you can't go wrong with that.
I also love that the author makes her readers fall for her secondary characters! they almost steal the show at times! hopefully we are lucky enough to get a book for Benny next because he was a fabulous side character with so much potential and I really hope to see a book for him and Mia, Luke or Mason at some stage.
I knew going in this story would not be easy to read. I think we all have known someone who has either passed away from breast cancer or is a breast cancer survivor. Sadly, most of us probably know both.
K.L. Grayson has dedicated this book to her sister, a breast cancer survivor, and the detail and emotion in this book are spot on. Laney's character is amazingly strong for herself and the others around her.
After many years apart from her first love, Laney comes back home to try and win Levi back. After all, she doesn't know how much time she has left. She only knows she wants Levi to be part of it. It's not an easy task as Levi is bitter and still angry over the way she left him years ago.
I won't ruin any details of the plot but I promise you will fall in love with Laney as she goes through her journey with breast cancer. And of course Levi is just as amazing as he was in Where We Belong. We get a few glimpses of Harley and Tyson as well as several other great side characters.
I have a feeling this book is going to be deeply personal for many people. It can be read as a stand alone but it is a spin-off of Where We Belong. My only criticism is that the end of the story seemed a bit rushed. However, I am sure the author was trying to close things up and not drag this into a 3 book series. It was still a great experience though and I highly recommend it.
P.S. to the author: I wouldn't mind reading a story about Mia and Benny. Hint hint.
This book is unbelievable fantastic! Seriously one of my Top books I've read of 2015! It is an emotionally packed book! Few books have really hit me. This one is one of them. As we get wrapped up in the world of hot alpha men, this book is real. Though it's fiction it's real in the way it can happen and does happen to woman on a daily basis.
Laney has loved only one man, Levi. Laney left Levi 8 years ago to fulfill her dream of becoming a chef. And left the one man she has only loved behind! And now she's back home to be with her brother Luke, her brother from another mother, Benny, and the her one love, Levi. And it's all because she wants to be with those she loves through this trying time of her life, breast cancer. Her BFF, Mia, drives cross country with her on her move back.
Levi has loved once. We met him in Where We Belong with Harley and Tyson. And each one of us feel in love with his whorish kinda way. (Admit it you know you love him too!). Laney has never left his mind. He has been with other women but non in his eyes compare to her. And now she's back. Not only that she now works for him in his restaurant, Blue, as his chef. He's determined not to let her back in, well at least not at first.
This book really truly is amazing! I love this storyline, the characters, everything about this book. You will need tissues for this book! Do not hesitate to one click this book!
4.5 stars. Levi Beckford is Harley's best friend from Where We Belong. Laney Jacobs is Levi's true love from 8 years ago and now she's back in Missouri to win Levi's heart again. Laney and Levi went their separate ways because they had different paths to take. Levi never recovered because he had just professed something important to Laney while she dropped the bomb that she was moving.
Laney always regretted not handling the situation differently and never strayed from loving him. Laney has a lot on her plate. She's reuniting with some old friends and her brother and she's got a life changing condition to deal with. Whether or not Levi accepts her back, Laney cannot live without knowing or regretting anymore. She makes every effort to show him how she really feels. Laney is a sweet girl with endless compassion. She thinks of others before her own self, but she's also determined and decides to start taking risks because tomorrow is not guaranteed.
Levi is definitely resistant, and understandably so. But slowly, he begins to thaw and remember the Laney he fell in love with. I enjoyed seeing Levi transition from the guy who didn't become attached to anyone and simply survived to a guy who smiles and has purpose and something to look forward to everyday. When Laney tells Levi her secret, will Levi still be there to support and to accept her? Will Laney have finally gotten what she wanted after all this time only to lose it all in the end? Great story.
The blurb alone breaks my heart. I knew this book would kill me. And it did. Laney and Levi's story is so heartbreaking and inspiring that I'll start this review with, you HAVE to pick this book up! Do not even question yourself. One-click it. Read it. And you'll love it.
I can spoil the whole thing and tell you what happens but I won't. Pretty Pink Ribbons is a book meant to read from start to finish without knowing how it'll end. I know some people are triggered by death and my previous statement might not be what you want to hear but trust me, this isn't a book you'll want to pass.
After 8 years of being apart, Laney moves back home to start getting things on track. Levi is one of those things. (And damn is he special!) There's a rocky start with them once they're in the same city once again and it's completely understandable. As time goes on and things work out, it's so sweet and beautiful that you don't want their story to end; you get the whole story-the good, the bad and the ugly, and it's truly inspiring.
Every step of Laney's journey will pull at your heart and make you wish upon stars for a miracle. <3
Complimentary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
I received an ARC from the author for an honest review.
Wow. Intense read that deals with subject matter that I think a lot of readers will be able to relate to and connect with.
Laney and Levi are in love. Just as Levi tells Laney for the first time he loves her Laney delivers the news that she got accepted into a cooking school. The problem is the school is in California and they live in St. Louis. Levi gives her an ultimatum, school or him; he's not willing to do a long distance relationship. Laney's background and upbringing forces her to choose school.
Fast forward 8 years and Laney is back in St. Louis, having obtained her degree. She wants to rekindle the flame with the man she never stopped loving, the only man she's ever loved. Will Levi be able to learn to love and trust her again? Laney is going through a difficult time as well and has something she needs to tell Levi, but she wants Levi to want her for her, not because of her circumstances.
Laney is one of my favorite heroines EVER. She is so strong and kind and very likable. She stole the book from Levi in my opinion. The emotions that Laney goes through in this book seem so real, you can really relate to her and sympathize with her. Great read.
Ladies & gents....KL has done it yet AGAIN!!! Meaning she has worked that wonderful brain of hers to the maximum and delivered yet another Amazing story to get lost in. This book left me with a few book hangovers because I just could not put it down. I wanted no I NEEDED to know what happened next. Emotional roller coaster doesn't even sum up the journey this heart wrenching, tragically beautiful, laugh out loud funny & blubber like a baby cry fest of a story, that u will absolutely love! Laney & Levi are hands down one of my new favorite book couples. Their journey is so beautifully written that it will make u stop and realize all the little things people take for granted in life, not realizing that tomorrow is never promised. You did an absolute phenomenal job KL & should be so very proud of yourself. I'm so honoured to be a part of Graysons Girls and CANNOT wait to see what's next.....Hopefully Mia & Benny' s story...hint hint lol GO BUY THIS BOOK IF YOU HAVEN'T YET...YOU WILL NO BE DISAPPOINTED!!!!!
Truly inspiring. It's ironic that I waited to read this until breast cancer awareness month, but I'm glad I did. Laney's struggle and the grace in which she faces it is depicted beautifully in this story. After reading the acknowledgments, it's clear this was a tale near and dear to the author, but I didn't need to read the acknowledgments to know that. Her true emotions and masterful descriptions bled from the page making it obvious Laney's pain was experienced first hand. There's no way around it, I hate cancer! I've lost loved ones and friends and it seems everywhere you turn someone is dealing with this horrible disease. While PPB is about breast cancer, coping, survival, pain, it's also about true love. Levi stole my heart from page one and when Laney crushed it on page two I prayed they'd find their way back to one another. Luckily for us, their rekindling over shadows all the pain we have to experience with Laney. I loved every single secondary character almost as much as the h/Hs and I truly look forward to reading more in this powerful series.
Heartbreakingly wonderful. I can't say how many times I gasped while reading this story. My heart was torn to pieces just to be picked up in the last few pages of the story.
Cancer is a word that most families know all to well and with this story you feel the passion & support network that Laney had with Levi, Mia, Luke, & Benny. To have a great group of people to keep her spirits up and try to reduce the stress while Laney is battling to live.
There is not enough words to describe the emotions that you will have when you read this book. The debut book by this author was emotional but this takes it to the next level. It's personal...could this be me or my friend; loving...I wanted you to love me for the right reasons (Laney tells Levi); strength (I usually cry after treatments in the shower so my friends will not think that I have given up); courage (going back home after a mastectomy to try to win the heart of the man that you left behind)! I absolutely ❤️ this book!